American English
/əbˈzɚv/
2 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
to watch someone or something carefully, especially to learn more about it
Practice out loudto watch someone or something carefully, especially to learn more about it
The scientists observed the birds for several hours.
She observed him talking to a stranger.
This meaning is more formal and more careful than simply watch.
observe behavior · observe closely · observe wildlife · observe a pattern
observe + someone/something
observe + someone/something + -ing
to notice or recognize something by looking or paying attention
The doctor observed a small change in her condition.
He observed that the door was still unlocked.
In everyday English, notice is often more natural for this meaning.
observe a change · observe a difference · observe that
observe + something
observe + that + subject + verb
to follow a rule, law, custom, or tradition
All drivers must observe the speed limit.
The community observes this tradition every spring.
observe the law · observe the rules · observe a tradition · observe a custom
observe + a rule/law
observe + a custom/tradition
to mark a special day by celebrating it or following its customs
Many families observe the holiday with a special meal.
The country observes its independence anniversary in July.
observe a holiday · observe an anniversary
observe + a holiday/anniversary
to remain silent for a short time to honor someone or remember an event
The crowd observed a moment of silence for the victims.
The final e is dropped before -ing: observing, not observeing.